Facelift

Aging effects appear gradually, creeping up on you in the form of sagging skin and wrinkles on your face and neck. You look in the mirror one day and see a person who looks older, tired – different than you picture yourself. Getting a Facelift or a Mini Facelift at The Plastic Surgery Center, will smooth and tighten your face, erasing years from your appearance and boosting your self-confidence. Dr. Steven Varkony is known for the remarkable results that he produces through procedures such as Facelift.

If you are interested in a facelift, request a consultation online with Dr. Steven Varkony, or call our office at (818) 907-9090 to schedule your complimentary consultation today!

You Deserve It!

Frequently asked questions about the Facelift procedure.

Here you’ll find some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the facelift procedure, but feel free to contact our office with any unanswered queries. We can’t wait to help you put your best face forward!

Am I a good Candidate for the facelift procedure?

The best facelift patient is in good health, a non-smoker, and is able to avoid blood thinning medications for two weeks before surgery. He or she is unhappy with the sagging skin on the face and neck, which leads to a tired, aged appearance.

How does a Facelift differ from a Mini Facelift?

A facelift is really designed to improve excessive sagging of the skin of the face. A mini-facelift is a less extensive procedure for those patients who need a quicker, less extensive, less invasive procedure.

I only want my neck improved. Is this possible without a Facelift?

Yes, the neck can be tightened without a full facelift. This procedure, a “neck lift”, usually involves making an incision behind the ears and in some cases, just below the chin to remove excess skin and treat vertical bands in the front of the neck. Liposuction of the neck may also be used.

My eyes look tired as well. What can be done for them?

A Facelift does not improve the appearance of the eyes, but this can be easily accomplished with a procedure called a blepharoplasty. This procedure involves removing excess skin of the upper and/or lower eyelids to create a younger and refreshed look. Lower eyelid fat can also be treated. You may also want to consider a brow lift, to raise the eyebrows to a more youthful position.

I also would like to improve the deep crease from my nose to the corner of my mouth. Will a Facelift help this?

This crease is called the “nasolabial fold”, and it is usually significantly improved by a facelift.

Can I have other procedures done at the same time as a Facelift?

You can, and often patients decide to have their eyes, brows, and/or neck improved at the same time. Doing multiple procedures on the same day does not lengthen the recovery time, and it allows the patient to accomplish many goals with one surgery.

Do I need to see my own doctor before a Facelift?

All patients require basic lab tests, medical clearance, and history & physical from their primary care physician. If the patient is over the age of 45 we require an EKG along with the standard testing.

Do I need to see my own doctor before a Facelift?

All patients require basic lab tests, medical clearance, and history & physical from their primary care physician. If the patient is over the age of 45 we require an EKG along with the standard testing.

What do I need to do the day before surgery?

The day before a Facelift, you should eat normally but avoid excessively heavy meals, or foods that can lead to acid reflux. Prepare your affairs so that you can completely relax and rest after surgery. Most importantly, do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure.

Where does the surgery take place?

What kind of anesthetic will be used?

For almost all cases, general anesthesia can be used, which means you will be completely asleep and pain-free during the entire case. Some other patients, having shorter procedures, can have lighter sedation. However, everyone will be completely comfortable during the procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

Facelifts usually take about an hour, but longer if additional procedures are added to the surgery.

Will I need someone caring for me after the procedure?

Yes. It is very important to have a family member, friend, or medical professional care for you during the first few days following your procedure.

How much pain will I have after surgery?

Facelifts do not generate much pain during recovery. You will mainly experience a sensation of tightness in your skin. Discomfort is well controlled with medications, which we will prescribe.

Will I have scars?

The scars of a facelift are well hidden and are usually only noticeable by the patient.

How much time off should I take from work and exercising?

You should plan to take one to two weeks off from work, so swelling and bruising can resolve. Exercise should be avoided for about three weeks after surgery but will be determined by Dr. Varkony through the healing process.